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It’s no secret that a restaurant POS can help streamline operations, improve quality of service, and keep customers happy. POS systems are only getting more intuitive as technology advances and evolves.

EMV terminals, mobile payment, tablet POS, and cloud-based POS systems are a few trends Optimus predicts will become more and more important for restaurants this year.

But, with so many software and hardware options available, how do restaurants know which system to choose?

One of the first steps is deciding between a local and cloud-based POS system. For the sake of this post, let’s focus on cloud systems.

If you are thinking about adopting a cloud-based system, it’s important to note that these systems operate differently than locally installed systems, but can offer restaurant owners new insight into their business.

Let’s take a look at three benefits of a cloud-based POS system:

1. Real-Time Data Access from Anywhere

Cloud-based POS systems enable owners to access real-time data from anywhere, at anytime. This is especially useful for managing multiple locations. Owners can ensure their business is running at maximum efficiency, even when they’re not physically present.

With this type of POS system, owners and managers can remotely monitor real-time business updates, view sales and transaction history, track best selling items, and much more. Cloud systems can also integrate all of that data so restaurateurs have an accurate and consolidated understanding of their business’ cash flow thus helping them run operations as efficiently as possible.

2. Improve FOH Speed

Typically, cloud-based systems integrate with new restaurant hardware, such as tablets and mobile phones. Tablet POS systems can increase the mobility of front of house staff and ultimately improve customer experiences. R|Magazine notes that cloud-based tablet POS systems can more easily integrate features like loyalty programs and rewards systems.

With a tablet POS, servers can send orders directly to the kitchen and ultimately provide smoother, quicker service. Front of house staff will experience more flexibility with taking orders and payments as it can be done right at the table, saving them a lot of time.

3. More Secure Data

Another benefit is enhanced security. A cloud-based POS system uses an Internet infrastructure to access data via a remote server. Basically, this means data can be automatically backed up and synced, providing better protection and updated information. It also doesn’t depend on software updates that need to be downloaded by a support professional.

These types of systems are also less susceptible to viruses: “Windows-based POS systems that acquire viruses are difficult and expensive to get fixed and reinstalled, whereas cloud-based POS systems are less likely to acquire viruses,” notes R|Magazine. Instead of hiring technicians to mitigate when a data breach occurs, these systems typically have IT professionals who guard and maintain data around the clock.

Because of these factors, cloud systems are more secure than local systems.

Final Thoughts

There’s no shortage of restaurant technology that can help to increase operational efficiency, improve customer experiences, and even boost profits. According to The National Restaurant Association, 73% of restaurant operators agree that technology provides a competitive edge and improves profitability.

Ultimately, this software can help restaurant owners make more informed decisions about their business to increase profits and improve customer satisfaction.